Today I put up some instastories about how I am having a really hard time currently recommending Airbnb properties in Japan as many of them seem to be unreliable ( after helping many young families who have been cancelled on or are not happy with the quality, location or rules.)
To ensure you are getting a fantastic Air Bnb in Japan make sure you read my post for things to check before booking and airbnb in Japan.
I had lots of people who responded in agreement that they don’t plan on using Airbnb in Japan BUT there were also many people who spoke of lovely, positive experiences with Airbnb and so I asked them to share the details.
Also, because of the language issue; realize that if you are at Airbnb you will not have a concierge or checkin guest to assist you with restaurant bookings, cheaper local recommendations in the area and there wont be anyone to help you call a doctor if a member of your family/ travel group falls ill.
As I mention in my ‘Preparing for your time in Japan’ post, the voltage is different so you will need to check ahead that your Airbnb supplies hairdryers etc.
Here is the list so far:
STARTING WITH TOKYO…
5 guests. 1 bedroom. 3 beds.
The reader who recommends this property says:
“It’s a very comfortable apartment. Bigger than other that we used before when it was just the two of us. But we love the neighborhood. Its great. A lot of places to eat or drink coffee and shops also near to Roppongi. I really use the playground in Roppongi Hills with my little boy.”
See here for other things to do in Azabu-Juban and here for my Roppongi suggestions.
Elegant spacious modern JP-style 2BR in Akasaka 3F
5 guests, 2 bedrooms, 3 beds, 1 bath
The reader who recommends this property says:
” This place was our absolute fave. Close to the subway. Hosts were amazing. Not to mention 2 bathrooms!!
The hosts own the whole building and there are 4 floors with an apartment on each.
Super close to food, 2 Family Marts, coffee shops, etc. Subway around the corner. Uber was able to find this apartment easily. Easy to reach on the subway and then walk – even with a suitcase.
The only negative is that there was no elevator, so we requested a lower level.
We ended up with the third floor.
That didn’t bother us.
There was one flight of stairs to get to the first/ ground floor, though ( so regardless of your floor there are still some stairs.) Thats the only negative point though.
It is really close to a burger place. It’ s around the corner ( for those who need a break from Japanese food.) ‘Authentic Burger’ is the name and it is in several ‘best burgers of Tokyo’ lists. It was really good.
I can’t wait to stay there again. And I’m picky. The one was the best.”
5 minutes to Shinjuku by train. 6 minute walk to Nakano Station
This was the view from the window.
The reader who recommends this property says:” I followed your advice for Airbnb and booked a recent stay at this Superhost’s place in Nakano. I recommend it.
The host Yuka was super responsive and supplied the home with items that made our stay easier too. 6 min walk to the station.
I stayed for 2 nights.
Pros: Elevator access. She supplied a McLaren stroller, basic snacks and water bottle in the fridge in the kitchen.
We had a washer and we could dry clothes on the veranda. TV and a big couch.
I enjoyed having a sliding door that separated the living room from the bedroom so I could put my kid to sleep and my husband and I could relax separately.
It was 1-2 blocks from the convenience store. 2 blocks away from 2 supermarkets and a Don Quixote and drug stores.
Across from the station is Nakano Sun Mall and Nakano Broadway, shopping arcades to buy food, cafes, restaurants and shops! Japanese soaking tub is amazing to soak your aches away. Cons: Bedroom curtains could’ve been darker to omit street lights. “
5 guests, 1 bedroom, 5 beds, 1 bath.
The reader who recommends this property says:
We stayed at this apartment in Sakurashimmachi in November last year and it was amazing!!!
It was a comfortable little apartment that included family essentials like a washing machine (yes my 2 year old threw up on me on the Tokyo metro…) and a kitchen.
The owner’s daughter lives downstairs and was so kind and helpful.
Best of all for families there is a playground literally next door and a wooded area with a creek you can play in and a nature play playground behind the building!
It was a ten minute walk to the metro but we enjoyed it, and from there it was ten minutes to Shibuya.
Even though it wasn’t super central it was such a nice residential area to enjoy living in. Supermarket and shops nearby too.
Historic and Elegant Suite in a Former Ryokan
6 guests. 3 bedrooms. 6 beds.
The reader who recommends this property says:
“I would recommend this property for older kids (around 10 or above). They sometimes make exceptions for younger kids if it seems like it will be a good fit.”
For my Kyoto sightseeing and restaurant suggestions, see my post here.
Direct KIX / 1 min walk Tengachaya ST/ 3 min Nanba ST
10 guests, 2 bedrooms, 10 beds, 1 bath.
The reader who recommends this property says:
” Awesome location, literally one minute to the station and the station goes directly to the Kyoto area, Dotonbori area and also the airport. There are 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. Three levels and a little balcony. Stairs are quite steep but my kids have been fine.
Everything is modern and comfortable, with a washing machine on the balcony.
I left our suitcases downstairs near the bathroom so it’s easy and I don’t have to lug stuff up and down the stairs.
My kids are 7, 5 and 2. This place is huge and my kids are enjoying having some more space . I love having the train station so close too.
